The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the works of the devil. 1 John 3:8

Christmas is the beginning of the end of the war on Satan and evil. If the war between good and evil were a boxing match, Christmas is when the champ stepped into the ring. The cross of Christ was the knockout punch that landed on the chin of Satan. Jesus said on the cross “It is finished.” And when Jesus rose from the dead, it’s like Satan fell to the canvas in the middle of the boxing ring. He’s down for the count right now.

But even though the war has been won, the battle rages on. Each day we seek God’s grace to fight against sin and temptation. Until one day, when victory is fully and finally realized, in the 2nd coming of Christ. In the meantime we know that because of the finished work of Christ who came at Christmas, died on Good Friday, and Resurrected on Easter Sunday, that sin has lost it’s power, and death has lost it’s sting.

“Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is your victory? O death where is your sting? …thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain. 1Cor 15:54-58

This past summer my wife and I hiked a mountain trail on a beautiful sunny day in Whittier Alaska. The trail was steep, but was said to provide a breathtaking view. As with many hikes, the further we walked and the higher we climbed, the more we begin to question whether or not we REALLY wanted to ascend all the way to the top.

As we walked, we came upon another couple on their way back down the mountain, who’d already been to the top. As they quickly approached, short of breath, I asked “Is it worth it?” They were almost all the way passed us when the man joyfully replied, “Everything is worth it! It just depends on your perspective!”

I can’t remember anything about what the man looks like, but his words immediately struck me. I was expecting to hear a yes or no, not a philosophy lesson! As we continued, I pondered his words and pretty quickly concluded, he’s right! Whatever it is, no matter how hard it is, it’s worth it…IF you have the right perspective.

Our perspective is our attitude, our point of view. Perspective includes the WHY behind what we do.

So what is our perspective to be? The Westminster Catechism poses the question, “What is the chief end of man?” and answers, “The chief end of man is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever.” Christianity teaches that the greatest motivation, the highest good, for every human being, is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever. 1 Corinthians 10:31 says, “whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” That’s the Christian perspective! Everything we do is for God.

So the question, “Is it worth it?” really boils down to the question, “Is God worth it?” And the answer is a resounding YES. Life can be quite a climb, BUT—whatever we do, we do for God, and God is worth it…Everything is worth it, if THAT is our perspective.

God’s worth it because He loves us so much that He died on a cross so that we could be forgiven and have a relationship with Him.

He’s worth it because He gives us eternal life.

He’s worth it because He gives us a purpose. He not only saves us but also uses us to further His mission.

He’s worth it because His character and work are perfect.

He’s worth it because He’s stronger, more loving, and more satisfying than the world’s best thing.

He’s worth it because He’s empowered us to battle sin that destroys us.

He’s worth it because He’s faithful to change, what needs to be changed in us.

He’s worth it because he’ll never leave us or give up on us.

Because of these, and a million other reasons, HE’S WORTH IT.

Btw, the view from the top of that mountain in Alaska was STUNNING! I’m so glad we didn’t turn back. Don’t ever turn back. Keep looking up. Keep living for His glory. He’s more than worth it.

Thankful for the great privilege we have to live in a country where we are able to vote!!! Thankful for so many who have served and currently serve to preserve our freedoms.

Also, I cast my ballot with my ultimate trust in King Jesus, the God of the universe, the giver of all good things. He alone is sovereign, powerful, merciful, and good in every way!

Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God. They collapse and fall, but we rise and stand upright. O LORD, save the king! May he answer us when we call. Psalm 20:7-9

Before you settle in to beating yourself over your failures and shortcomings, be reminded of this:

…he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. Philippians 1:6

We serve a God of grace, and He’s not done with you, or any of us, yet! It’s good to admit when we’re wrong, confess it to God, ask forgiveness, and change direction. But beyond that, don’t trip over what is behind you, friend! Be encouraged!